#418 — A Future for Democrats
In this episode of Making Sense, Sam Harris and Congressman Ritchie Torres examine shifts in Democratic Party politics and governance. Their discussion covers the party's movement toward more progressive positions on issues like immigration and criminal justice, while exploring how intersectionality frameworks and identity politics have influenced political discourse, particularly on college campuses and social media.
The conversation delves into challenges facing Democrat-led cities, the rise of anti-Semitism in left-wing circles, and tensions surrounding Israel-Palestine relations. Torres shares his perspective on the Democratic Party's future, suggesting a renewed focus on practical issues like housing affordability and healthcare access, while moving away from ideological battles toward what he describes as a more rational center.
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1-Page Summary
Democrats Shift Right; Far-left Politics Rise
According to Ritchie Torres, the Democratic Party has experienced significant ideological shifts, with progressive politics becoming increasingly extreme. Torres notes that the party has moved from advocating moderate reform to supporting more radical positions on issues like immigration, criminal justice, and Israel-Palestine relations. This leftward shift, he suggests, has created a disconnect between the party and many American voters.
Identity Politics, Intersectionality, and Moral Absolutism
Torres critiques the far left's adoption of intersectionality, particularly on college campuses, where complex issues are often reduced to simple oppressor-versus-oppressed narratives. He and Sam Harris discuss how this framework has led to problematic treatment of Jewish communities, with Torres noting that disagreement with far-left views often leads to accusations of betrayal rather than legitimate political discourse.
Challenges in Democratic Governance
Torres points to serious governance issues in Democrat-led cities and states, particularly in New York and Chicago. He argues that the Democratic Party's focus on ideological purity and interest group demands has come at the expense of effective governance, citing the Biden administration's delayed response to border security as an example of being "ideologically captured by the far left."
Rising Anti-Semitism and Anti-Israel Sentiment
Harris and Torres explore concerning trends in left-wing circles, particularly in academia, regarding anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment. Torres highlights how intersectionality frameworks often cast Jews and Israel as oppressors while overlooking violence against Jewish communities. He expresses particular concern about the spread of these perspectives through social media and college campuses.
Future of Democratic Party
Torres advocates for a "return to a rational center," emphasizing the need to focus on practical issues like the affordability crisis rather than identity-based ideological battles. He suggests that Democrats should reclaim patriotism and American exceptionalism while addressing concrete economic concerns affecting working-class Americans, including access to affordable education, healthcare, and housing.
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Counterarguments
- The Democratic Party's shift to the left reflects the evolving priorities and values of its constituents, and it is a natural part of the political process.
- Advocating for radical positions on various issues can be seen as a response to systemic problems that require bold solutions, not just moderate reforms.
- The perceived disconnect between the Democratic Party and American voters may be overstated, as progressive candidates and policies have found success in various elections.
- Intersectionality is a valuable analytical tool that helps to understand the complexities of social inequalities and can lead to more inclusive and equitable policies.
- Accusations of betrayal in response to disagreement with far-left views are not representative of the entire left or Democratic Party and may be isolated incidents.
- Governance issues in Democrat-led cities and states can be multifaceted and not solely attributed to ideological purity or interest group demands.
- The focus on ideological purity can also be seen as a commitment to principles and a refusal to compromise on important moral issues.
- Concerns about anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment need to be addressed with nuance, recognizing legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies from anti-Semitic rhetoric.
- The spread of anti-Semitic and anti-Israel sentiments is a complex issue that requires careful examination and should not be conflated with legitimate advocacy for Palestinian rights.
- Focusing on identity-based ideological battles can be an important part of addressing systemic discrimination and achieving social justice.
- A return to a rational center may not necessarily address the needs and demands of those who feel marginalized by centrist policies.
- Reclaiming patriotism and American exceptionalism can be problematic if it overlooks the nation's historical and ongoing struggles with inequality and injustice.
- Addressing economic concerns affecting working-class Americans does not have to exclude a focus on social issues, as the two are often interconnected.
Actionables
- You can foster open dialogue by starting a book club focused on a range of political perspectives to encourage nuanced discussions. Choose books from various political ideologies, including moderate and progressive viewpoints, and facilitate conversations that explore the complexities of each position. This can help bridge the gap between different political beliefs and promote understanding beyond the binary narratives.
- Engage with your local political representatives by writing letters that express your concerns about governance and the importance of focusing on practical issues. Highlight the need for addressing the affordability crisis and economic concerns of the working class. Personal stories or examples of how these issues impact your community can make your letters more compelling and may influence policymakers to consider a more centrist approach.
- Create a social media campaign that celebrates diverse expressions of patriotism and American exceptionalism, showcasing how they can coexist with progressive values. Use hashtags, visuals, and stories to highlight instances where economic and social progress have been achieved through patriotic endeavors. This can help reshape the narrative around patriotism within progressive circles and demonstrate that love for one's country can be a unifying, rather than divisive, force.
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Democrats Shift Right; Far-left Politics Rise
Ritchie Torres provides insight into the changes occurring within the Democratic Party, considering the rise of progressive influence and the party's apparent ideological shift.
Democratic Party Shifts Left: Rise of Progressive Influence
Progressive politics within the Democratic Party have grown more extreme, notes Torres, as the party shifts from advocating for immigration reform to pushing for open borders, from calling for criminal justice reform to supporting measures like abolishing or defunding the police, and from backing a two-state solution regarding Israel to endorsing movements such as BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) or almost calling for the globalizing of the intifada.
Progressive Views on Immigration, Criminal Justice, and Israel Alienate Many Americans
Torres recognizes a growing awareness within the Democratic Party that its stances on issues like immigration may have gone too far left for many Americans' comfort. The use of terms like "Latinx" and support for slogans such as "free Palestine from the river to the sea" has contributed to an estrangement between the Democratic Party and wide swathes of the American electorate.
Democratic Shift Left Opens Opportunity for Republican Resurgence Under Trump
The internal divide within Democrats, classified by Torres as "team restraint" and "team resistance," brings to light the struggle between seeking moderation and reacting emot ...
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Democrats Shift Right; Far-left Politics Rise
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Counterarguments
- The term "extreme" is subjective; what is considered extreme by some may be seen as necessary and just by others who believe systemic changes are needed.
- The concept of alienation can be complex; while some Americans may feel alienated by progressive stances, others may feel represented and heard for the first time.
- The use of "Latinx" is an attempt to be inclusive of all gender identities, even if its adoption is not universal among Hispanic or Latino communities.
- The slogan "free Palestine from the river to the sea" represents a range of perspectives on the Israel-Palestine conflict, and support for it does not necessarily equate to estrangement from the electorate but rather a commitment to certain principles of international justice and human rights.
- The dichotomy between "team restraint" and "team resistance" may oversimplify the range of views within the Democratic Party and the strategic considerations involved in political decision-making.
- Ideological purity is sometimes framed as a commitment to core values and principles, which can be crucial for maintaining a clear party identi ...
Actionables
- You can broaden your political perspective by engaging with a diverse range of community groups to understand the varied concerns of different demographics. Start by attending local town hall meetings, volunteering with community organizations, or joining online forums that represent a spectrum of political views. This will give you firsthand insight into the priorities and challenges of various groups, which may differ from the extreme views presented.
- Enhance your communication skills by practicing inclusive language that resonates with a wider audience. Take a short online course or watch tutorials on effective communication and cultural sensitivity. Apply these skills in your daily conversations, focusing on language that is respectful and avoids alienating others based on their beliefs or backgrounds.
- Develop a balanced approach to political discussions by organizing small, informal ...
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Identity Politics, Intersectionality, and Moral Absolutism in Parties
Ritchie Torres and Harris delve into how intersectionality and moral absolutism within certain political factions can lead to division and intolerance, particularly towards the Jewish community.
Intersectionality: A Dominant Lens Dividing the World Into Oppressors and Oppressed
Ritchie Torres critiques the far left's adoption of intersectionality on college campuses, which often views the world strictly through the lens of oppressors and the oppressed. He points out that this perspective consistently labels Israel as the oppressor and Hamas as the oppressed without considering the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This simplistic worldview lacks empathy for Jews and fails to adequately condemn the violence perpetrated by Hamas.
Simplistic Worldview Lacks Empathy For Jews, Fails to Condemn Hamas Violence
Torres emphasizes that the intersectional categorization of Jews as an oppressor or privileged class leads to discrimination against Jews in ways that would not be accepted if directed at other minorities. This one-dimensional lens robs many Americans of their ability to empathize with Israelis, particularly those who are victims of violence.
The Left's Moral Absolutism Turns Dissent Into Heresy, Not Legitimate Disagreement
Harris raises concerns about the far left within the party, suggesting that a push further to the left could alienate centrist Americans. He spotlights the symbiotic relationship between the far left and far right, where actions from one tend to provoke reactions from the other.
Selective Rule Enforcement Protects Some Identities and Demonizes Others, Like the Jewish Community
Torres shares personal experiences to illustrate the lack of acceptance for differing opinions within the far-left faction. Being black, Latino, and LGBTQ, he notes that not aligning with the far left's views makes him not just an enemy but a traitor, subject to a special kind of hatred.
He also comments on moral absolutism, prevalent a ...
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Identity Politics, Intersectionality, and Moral Absolutism in Parties
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Counterarguments
- Intersectionality aims to understand how different forms of discrimination intersect and is not inherently about dividing the world into oppressors and oppressed.
- Intersectionality can be used to understand the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including the historical and current power dynamics at play.
- Critiques of Israel's policies are not necessarily indicative of a lack of empathy for Jews or a failure to condemn violence from groups like Hamas.
- Intersectionality seeks to highlight the ways in which various forms of oppression can overlap, which can include the experiences of Jewish individuals.
- The far left's moral absolutism is not representative of all individuals or groups who identify with left-leaning politics or intersectionality.
- The relationship between the far left and far right is complex and not necessarily symbiotic; actions by one do not always provoke reactions from the other.
- Dissent within political factions can be seen as a healthy part of democratic discourse rather than heresy.
- Moral absolutism is not exclusive to the far left or far right; it can be found across the political spectrum.
- Se ...
Actionables
- You can broaden your understanding of complex issues by reading literature from multiple perspectives, including those that challenge your current beliefs. This helps you avoid the trap of moral absolutism and appreciate the nuances in political and social debates. For example, if you've only read about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from a single viewpoint, seek out reputable sources from the other side to gain a more balanced understanding.
- Engage in active listening during conversations about sensitive topics, focusing on understanding the other person's point of view rather than immediately categorizing it as right or wrong. This practice fosters empathy and acknowledges legitimate disagreement without demonizing dissent. When discussing identity politics, for instance, listen to the experiences of individuals from various communities, including Jewish people, to understand their unique challenges.
- Create a pe ...
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Challenges in Governance and Competence in Democrat-Led Cities and States
Torres discusses the crisis of governance in Democrat-led cities and states, enunciating concerns about how issues in management are eroding trust and contributing to Republican political gains.
Democratic Areas Face Governance Issues, Eroding Trust and Boosting Republican Gains
Public Goods Supply Policies Fuel Affordability Crisis and Blue State Population Flight
Torres specifically pinpoints New York and Chicago as cities facing a crisis in governance. He notes that in the state of New York, a significant swing toward Donald Trump in recent elections can be traced back to governance failures at the state and local levels. Moreover, he believes that such mismanagement in Democratic areas is propelling an electoral plight for the Democratic Party, as it grapples with the consequences of its governance lapses.
Democratic Party's Focus on Interest Groups Worsens Governance Challenges
Torres argues that the Democratic Party has sometimes prioritized the demands of interest groups over addressing the tangible needs of citizens. He charges that the Biden administration's delay in crucial actions—like securing the border—exemplifies how being "ideologically captured by the far left" affects governance across various jurisdictions.
Progressive Focus on Purity Undermines Governanc ...
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Challenges in Governance and Competence in Democrat-Led Cities and States
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Counterarguments
- Democratic-led cities and states also face structural challenges that are not solely due to party governance, such as economic shifts and federal policies.
- Republican-led areas also experience governance issues, indicating that challenges are not exclusive to one political party.
- Population movements between states are influenced by a variety of factors, including job opportunities, climate, and personal preferences, not just public policy.
- The swing towards Donald Trump in certain areas may be influenced by a complex set of factors, including national sentiment, economic concerns, and campaign strategies, rather than governance failures alone.
- The Democratic Party's engagement with interest groups can be seen as a form of democratic representation, ensuring diverse voices are heard in policy-making.
- The Biden administration's approach to policy, including border security, may be based on a broader strategic vision that balances immediate actions with long-term goals.
- The progressive wing's focus on ideological principles can be viewed as a commitment to values and a push for systemic change rather than ...
Actionables
- You can evaluate the effectiveness of local governance by tracking policy outcomes in your area. Start by identifying key issues that affect your community, such as housing affordability or public safety. Use local news sources, government reports, and community forums to gather data on these issues. For example, if housing affordability is a concern, look at the trends in housing prices and rental rates in relation to median income over time. This will give you a clearer picture of how well your local government is managing public goods and addressing citizens' needs.
- Engage in constructive conversations with neighbors to gauge the impact of governance on community sentiment. Create a casual discussion group with people in your neighborhood to talk about local governance issues. Focus on sharing experiences and observations about how management decisions have affected daily life. For instance, discuss any noticeable changes in the quality of public services or the responsiveness of elected officials to community concerns. This can help you understand the broader implications of governance on electoral outcomes and public trust.
- Use social media to amplify competent problem-solving initiatives in your community. Identif ...
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Rising Anti-Semitism and Anti-Israel Sentiment in Left Circles
Sam Harris and Ritchie Torres delve into the complex and fraught nature of anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment within left-wing political circles, especially in academia.
Anti-Semitism and Anti-Israel Sentiment in Progressive Intersectionality
Harris raises concerns about the trend of anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment in left circles, specifically in academia. Following an attack on Israel, he observed protests in support of Hamas before Israel had the chance to respond, indicating a misinterpretation of the conflict and erroneously portraying Hamas as a just resistance force. This stance disregards the reality of Hamas' actions and displays a troubling lack of empathy towards the Jewish community.
Torres adds that the Jewish state and the Jewish people are habitually cast in a negatively skewed light via the lens of intersectionality. This dominant narrative dehumanizes Israelis, stripping them of empathy by rigidly depicting them as oppressors and Hamas as faultless. He notes that in left-of-center circles, Jews are often viewed as an oppressor class, ignoring their historical suffering and the violence they continue to face, such as the failure to condemn Hamas' violence.
Torres also voices concern regarding the indoctrination occurring on social media platforms and college campuses, which is propagating not only hatred towards Israel but also towards America itself. He underscores the need to defend American and Western values, combatting the prevailing moral confusion and nihilism. To illustrate his point, Torres compares the rights of Arab women in Israel with the treatment of women in Afghanistan, underscoring the moral disparity between the two societies—a difference often overlooked due to moral confusion.
Selective Enforcement of Rules and Double Standards on Criticism of Israel and Anti-Semitism in Media and on Campuses Undermine the Left's Credibility
Torres asserts that there is a culturally respectable form of anti-Semitism within A ...
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Rising Anti-Semitism and Anti-Israel Sentiment in Left Circles
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Counterarguments
- Criticism of Israeli government policies is not inherently anti-Semitic, and conflating the two can stifle legitimate debate about human rights and international law.
- Intersectionality aims to understand how different forms of discrimination overlap; it does not necessarily imply that Jews are oppressors but seeks to analyze power dynamics in various contexts.
- The portrayal of Hamas as a just resistance force may be based on the perspective that all people have the right to resist occupation, although this does not justify the use of violence against civilians.
- The claim of indoctrination on social media and college campuses could be countered by the argument that academic freedom encourages diverse perspectives, including criticism of any nation's policies.
- The assertion that there is a culturally respectable form of anti-Semitism could be challenged by the idea that criticism of Israel's government is often conflated with anti-Semitism, which can obscure genuine anti-Semitic attitudes and actions.
- The idea of selective enforcement and double standards could be met with the argument that Israel, as a powerful state with significant influence, is subject to more scrutiny, similar to other powerful states.
- Moral relativism in academia could be countered by the argument that scholars often engage in complex ethical debates and that what is perceived as moral relativism may be an attempt to understand and critique different moral frameworks.
- The view of Jews as a privileged oppressor class can be countered by emphasi ...
Actionables
- You can broaden your understanding of historical and current Jewish experiences by reading books and watching documentaries made by Jewish creators or scholars. This will provide you with a more nuanced perspective that goes beyond the narratives you might encounter in academia or on social media. For example, seek out works that cover Jewish history comprehensively, such as those that discuss both the Holocaust and the founding of Israel, to gain insight into the complexities of Jewish identity and experiences.
- Engage in conversations with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who hold different views on Israel and anti-Semitism. Approach these discussions with the intent to listen and understand rather than to argue. This can be done in casual settings like coffee meetups or book clubs. By doing so, you'll expose yourself to a variety of perspectives, which can help counteract the echo chambers that often form on social media and college campuses.
- ...
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Future of Democratic Party: Need For Moderate, Competence Focus
Ritchie Torres, drawing on his origins from the Bronx and experience with poverty, advocates for a pragmatic approach rooted in the lived experiences of people facing real-world challenges like the affordability crisis.
To Regain Trust, Democrats Must Shift From Ideological Purity To Pragmatic, Competence-Focused Governance
Torres believes the Democratic Party needs a "return to a rational center," prioritizing pragmatic solutions over ideological battles. He and Harris discuss avoiding far-left stances that may alienate centrists while focusing on issues such as corruption and incompetence.
Prioritize the Affordability Crisis Over Identity-Based Ideological Battles
The affordability crisis, as Torres describes, is the key issue, necessitating moves away from identity politics towards solving pragmatic economic concerns. Torres emphasizes focusing on practical outcomes and restructuring to ensure that essential services like housing are not limited by policies that make them scarce and unaffordable. He identifies the affordability of education, healthcare, and housing as critical issues that the Democratic Party must address to alleviate the working class's suffering and prevent the radicalization of the next generation.
Torres discusses the need for Democrats to reclaim patriotism and celebrate American exceptionalism, countering Trump-era sentiments and internal conflicts. He sees an opportunity for the Democratic Party to focus on class and opportunities for all Americans, advocating for a patriotic vision that embraces the diversity of American democracy.
Democrats Should Reclaim Patriotism and American Exceptionalism, Celebrating Achievements and Opportunities, Not Denigrating It
Torres draws a parallel between Israeli leftists who express patriotism and American leftists who sometime ...
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Future of Democratic Party: Need For Moderate, Competence Focus
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Counterarguments
- The focus on pragmatism and competence might overlook the importance of visionary and transformative policies that address systemic issues.
- Shifting away from identity politics could be seen as neglecting the specific and significant challenges faced by marginalized groups.
- Prioritizing the affordability crisis is important, but it should not come at the expense of other pressing issues like climate change or social justice.
- Reclaiming patriotism and American exceptionalism might alienate those who are critical of America's historical and current policies, both domestically and internationally.
- A moderate approach may not sufficiently mobilize the base of the Democratic Party, which includes many progressives and left-leaning voters.
- Emphasizing class issues is crucial, but it should not lead to the oversimplification of complex intersectional ...
Actionables
- You can volunteer with organizations that focus on practical solutions to local issues, such as affordable housing initiatives, to directly impact your community. By offering your time to groups that work on the ground, you'll gain firsthand experience with the challenges people face and contribute to pragmatic change. For example, join a local Habitat for Humanity project to help build homes for those in need.
- Start a book club or discussion group that explores narratives and non-fiction works about the American dream and class issues. This can foster a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences of Americans and the systemic barriers to success. Choose a mix of classic American literature and contemporary works that reflect the current socioeconomic landscape.
- Encourage a culture of lifelong learning b ...
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1-Page Summary- Democrats Shift Right; Far-left Politics Rise
- Identity Politics, Intersectionality, and Moral Absolutism in Parties
- Challenges in Governance and Competence in Democrat-Led Cities and States
- Rising Anti-Semitism and Anti-Israel Sentiment in Left Circles
- Future of Democratic Party: Need For Moderate, Competence Focus
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